The World Needs You
The Pilot Career Future
The aviation industry is changing quickly. If you have ever thought about becoming a pilot, there has never been a better time to start your training in Southern Nevada.
The Pilot Shortage
A Great Time to Become a Pilot
The airline industry needs about 30,000 new pilots every year. Many pilots who work now will retire soon. This means there are many open spots for new people to start their journey. Whether you live in Summerlin, Henderson, or right here in North Las Vegas, you can begin training for these jobs today.
Starting your flight training in Las Vegas today gives you a big advantage for your future career. At Vegas Aviation, we help you go from your first flight to a professional job with a clear plan.
What Awaits You
Possible Career Paths
Once you become a full fledged pilot, many different paths open up for you.
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Build the Future
Most new pilots begin their careers as instructors. This job lets you earn money while you build the 1,500 flight hours needed for the airlines. It is a rewarding way to master your own skills by teaching others.
Airline Pilot
Take to the Skies
As an airline pilot, you can work for large national companies or smaller regional airlines. Many pilots start at regional airlines to gain experience before moving to major carriers.
Cargo Pilot
Move World Cargo
Cargo pilots fly large aircraft filled with mail and packages instead of people. You might work for companies like FedEx, UPS, or Amazon Air. It is a stable career path with great benefits.
Corporate Pilot
Fly Private Jets
Corporate pilots fly private jets for business leaders or individuals. This job offers a more personal flight experience and the chance to visit unique places that big airlines do not go.
Education
We Can Help You Start Studying
Learning to fly involves both practice in the air and study on the ground. Vegas Aviation partners with several schools to help you earn a degree while you learn to fly in Las Vegas.
Purdue Global
Online Studies
You can earn a Bachelor's degree in Professional Flight or Aviation Management online. You can get college credit for the flight training you finish at Vegas Aviation.
College of Southern Nevada
Aviation Technology
This local college offers an Associate's degree in Aviation Technology. These credits can also transfer to Purdue if you want a four-year degree later.
Rancho High School
Begin Early
We work with the Academy of Aviation at Rancho High School. This allows high school students in Nevada to start their flight training early.
Financing
Financing Your Training
Don't let costs ground your dreams, affordable flight training is within reach. Explore loans, scholarships, and flexible payment plans to keep your aviation goals on track.
Flight Training Finance
Financing
Flight Training Finance offers affordable financing for part-time flight training, including private pilot and instrument ratings—perfect for students training on a flexible schedule.
AOPA
Financing
Unlike traditional student loans, AOPA's flight training loan is a line of credit that funds any flight school or program. Use it to cover costs as you progress from private pilot to advanced ratings.
CAREER ROADMAP
Your Path to the Cockpit
Follow this proven sequence at Vegas Aviation to move from your first flight to a professional pilot career in Southern Nevada.
The Discovery Flight
See if a pilot career is right for you with a hands-on lesson
Visit us at the North Las Vegas Airport (KVGT) to fly a Cessna 172 with an instructor. You will sit in the pilot's seat and help with the controls. This introductory session includes a brief ground orientation followed by 30 to 60 minutes of actual flight time, the perfect opportunity to experience the cockpit firsthand and discuss your future in aviation.
Private Pilot License
Learn the basics of flight and earn your first official pilot certificate
This is where your journey truly begins. You will learn how to take off, land, and find your way across Nevada skies. Throughout your training, you will master solo flight, weather analysis, and navigation before demonstrating your proficiency in a final practical exam known as a checkride.
Instrument Rating
Learn to fly using only the tools in the cockpit
Professional pilots must be able to fly when they cannot see the ground, such as when navigating through clouds. Training involves extensive practice flying solely by reference to instruments, often using vision-restricting devices, to develop the advanced precision navigation skills required for airline or cargo operations.
Commercial Pilot License
Earn the certificate that allows you to get paid for flying
Once you reach 250 total flight hours, you can test for your commercial license. You will refine your technique through complex maneuvers, proving your ability to maintain the highest standards of passenger safety and comfort. This is the pivotal point where flying transitions from a hobby into a professional career.
Multi-Engine Rating
Add the skill of flying planes with two engines to your resume
Most large planes utilize multiple engines for increased performance and safety. These intensive lessons focus on managing increased speed and power while mastering the critical safety systems and engine-out procedures unique to multi-engine aircraft, a fundamental requirement for the airline industry.
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Teach new students and build the flight hours you need for the airlines
The final step for many career pilots in Las Vegas is becoming a mentor. As an instructor at Vegas Aviation, you will master the art of translating complex aeronautical concepts for students while maintaining a safe learning environment. This role is the most common path to reaching the 1,500-hour milestone required by major air carriers.
Student Testimonials
Inspiring Stories from Our Students
I had the opportunity to do a discovery flight with Vegas Aviation, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, the entire staff was incredibly kind, welcoming, and attentive. They explained everything clearly, gave me a tour of the place, and made sure I felt comfortable and excited throughout the process. The flight itself was amazing, getting to sit in the cockpit, feel the controls, and feel the freedom of flying above Las Vegas was a dream coming true. I deeply thank Vegas Aviation staff, Tom, Lukas and Roxana.
I've used a variety of flight schools in the Las Vegas Area, and Vegas Aviation has definitely been the best one. My main concerns at the beginning of my flight training were the quality and availability of the planes and instructors, but none of that has been a problem for me during my time here. Another major concern of mine was pricing. I will say that rental prices are slightly higher than other flight schools in the area, but through getting my Private Pilot License I learned that you get what you pay for. If I could start my training all over again I would picked Vegas Aviation sooner to save more time and money in the long run.
I started flight school at Vegas Aviation in June 2022. I got my PPL, Instrument, Commercial and multi engine ratings. And I just obtained my CFI certificate. I loved every part of it! Super nice and supportive staff, great aircrafts!
Become a Pilot
Think You Are Ready to Start Flying?
The first step to begin flight training is easier than you might think, take our quick and practical Pilot Readiness Assessment quiz and get a better understanding of what's involved in earning your wings. Our assessment will help you take that exciting first step toward becoming a pilot with confidence. Submit the quiz and we will get back to you with the next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Be proficient in English.
- Be at least 17 years old when you complete the course.
- Have proof of U.S. citizenship or completed TSA approval.
- Hold at least a Third-Class Medical Certificate before you can fly solo. An FAA medical exam by an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) is required.
- Ground School: Classroom instruction covering aerodynamics, regulations, weather, navigation, and safety.
- Dual Flight Instruction: Flight hours with a certified instructor.
- Solo Flight Time: Supervised solo flights once eligibility and proficiency standards are met.
- Written and Practical Exams: FAA knowledge tests and checkrides.
YOUR PILOT CAREER STARTS HERE
Take Off with Vegas Aviation
Experience personalized flight training with our instructors, they are passionate people dedicated to your success. Whether you're starting your first lesson or advancing your skills, Vegas Aviation offers a supportive community and expert guidance every step of the way.
Book a Discovery Flight